How to Make a Money Lei Graduation: A Detailed Guide
Graduation is a significant milestone in one’s life, and it’s only fitting to celebrate it in a unique and memorable way. One such tradition that has gained popularity is the money lei. This Hawaiian-inspired tradition involves wrapping money around a leis, which are flower necklaces, to symbolize prosperity and good wishes for the graduate. If you’re looking to create a money lei for your graduation, here’s a detailed guide to help you out.
Choosing the Right Flowers
The first step in making a money lei is selecting the right flowers. The most popular choice for money leis is the plumeria, also known as the Hawaiian lei flower. However, you can also use other flowers like orchids, roses, or even a mix of different blooms. The key is to choose flowers that are vibrant and have a pleasant scent.
| Flower | Color | Scent |
|---|---|---|
| Plumeria | Yellow, pink, red, white | Exotic, sweet |
| Orchid | White, pink, purple, yellow | Exotic, sweet |
| Rose | Red, pink, white, yellow | Strong, sweet |
When choosing your flowers, consider the color and scent, as these will play a significant role in the overall appearance and fragrance of your money lei.
Preparing the Money
The next step is to prepare the money. It’s common to use dollar bills, but you can also use other denominations or even coins. The key is to ensure that the money is clean and crisp. You may want to fold the bills in half or quarters to make them easier to wrap around the flowers.
Some people prefer to use real money, while others opt for fake money or paper bills. The choice is entirely up to you, but make sure the money is easily recognizable and not too worn out.
Assembling the Lei
Now it’s time to assemble the lei. Start by taking a long piece of floral wire or string and threading it through the center of the first flower. Then, take a bill and wrap it around the wire or string, securing it in place with a small piece of tape or a small rubber band. Repeat this process with each subsequent flower and bill, making sure to keep the lei tight and even.
As you add more flowers and bills, you may need to adjust the length of the wire or string to maintain the desired shape and size of the lei. It’s important to keep the lei tight and uniform throughout the process.
Adding Personal Touches
Once you have the basic money lei assembled, you can add personal touches to make it even more special. Consider adding a ribbon or tassel to the end of the lei for a festive look. You can also include a small, personalized message or tag with the graduate’s name or graduation year.
Some people choose to add additional decorations, such as beads, charms, or even small, decorative items like seashells or feathers. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make the lei your own.
Care and Maintenance
After you’ve completed your money lei, it’s important to take proper care of it. Store the lei in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. If the lei starts to wilt or lose its shape, you can gently mist it with water to help revive it. Be sure to keep the lei away from moisture and dust, as these can damage the flowers and money.
When you’re ready to wear the lei, make sure to do so with care. Avoid pulling or tugging on the flowers or money, as this can cause them to come loose or tear. With proper care, your money lei will last for years to come, serving as a cherished keepsake from your graduation day.
Creating a money lei for your graduation is a wonderful way to celebrate this important milestone in your life. By following these steps and adding your own personal touch, you’ll end up with a beautiful, meaningful keepsake that you’ll cherish for years to come.